Course 2008-2009 a.y.

Course Objectives

The course focuses on the cross-disciplinary study of environmental, socio-cultural and economic issues in tourism. The objective is to provide the tools for understanding the dynamics and new frontiers of the tourism market, both from the demand and the supply side. The discussions examine methodological issues and practical strategies to maximize the tourism potential of local resources, visiting attractions and sites. The complex relationship among tourism firms, territories and stakeholdersare are studied, analyzing the role of networks and the economic and environmental impacts at the destination level and the instruments to enhance the value of specific local resources. The course takes advantage of the theoretical and practical approaches derived from the tourism economics. Tourism policy implications are discussed during the course, also by simulating.

Course Content Summary

• The tourism system: dynamics and trends;
• The hospitality  (Hotellerie, Meeting and Congress);
• The tourism intermediaries (TO and travel agencies);
• Cultural, social and economic impacts of tourism;
• Environmental issues related to tourism development;
• Destination management and tourism competitiveness;
• Information and knowledge management in tourism;
• Congestion management of the cultural and natural sites;
• The destination branding;
• Climate change and crisis management;
• Emerging tourism attractions: enogastronomy, fashion, movie industry, events;
• Tourism and poverty alleviation;
• Simulation of tourism strategies and policies.

Workshops with experts and executives are carried out during the course.

Detailed Description of Assessment Methods

Attending Students:

• 50% written exam on topics discussed during the lectures
• 50% individual/group assignment (15% case study, 35% class discussion)

A mid-term exam is done during the course.

Non attending students

• 50% written exam on topics discussed during the lectures
• 50% individual/group assignment (15% case study, 35% class discussion)

Textbooks

 Lecture notes and readings